Corrosion

Definition of Corrosion

Corrosion is defined as a refined metal that is naturally converted to a more stable form such as its hydroxide or sulphide state. Metal corrodes when it reacts with another substance such as oxygen, hydrogen or bacteria. Corrosion can also happen when metals are placed under too much stress causing the material to crack. Corrosion leads to deterioration of the material.

Stainless steel is highly corrosion resistant, making it suitable for use in environments where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or harsh conditions such as salt water is expected.

In this section you can find newsitems related to all types of corrosion such as stress corrosion cracking, intergranular corrosion, pitting, and corrosion fatigue. If you wish to include your news release on our website and email newsletter, please feel free to contact the editor.

430 stainless steel approved

Shandong Taishan Steel Group’s 430 stainless steel has successfully gone through macroscopic test and thus, gotten the approval for market assess.

Erratum: Weir Materials bought by Rolled Alloys

Weir Materials has announced that it has been bought by Rolled Alloys and will trade as RA Materials.

Centravis sponsors conference

The Fourth international conference Stainless and Special Steels 2008 took place on 16-17 October in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine.

Stainless Steel World Conference & Exhibition 2009

The 6th biennial Stainless Steel World Conference & Exhibition 2009 will be held 10 November until 12 November, in Maastricht, The Netherlands.

Pipe manipulator system

Arc Energy Resources has applied to patent a pipe manipulation system designed to increase the efficiency and quality of its corrosion resistant coating services to the oil & gas industry.

Interconnector materials

Sandvik Surface Technology has launched interconnector materials for use in solid oxide fuel cell technology, which combine high temperature corrosion resistance with surface conductivity.

Materials Technology Workshop

Predictive maintenance and overall equipment effectiveness are key factors on the way to operational excellence.

EOS develops titanium alloys

EOS has developed two alloyed versions of its Titanium TiCP, which are applicable to aerospace, motorsport and medical applications.

ASM International honours Dr Collins

ASM International has elected Sunniva R. Collins Ph.D. senior research fellow at Swagelok Co., a Fellow of the Society.

Van Leeuwen Wheeler expands

Van Leeuwen Wheeler has expanded its offering for the fluid power industry with the addition of NiKrom 350bar to its product ranges.


Corrosion can be a big problem because it can cause significant damage and deterioration to various materials, particularly metals. We have listed below several reasons why corrosion is a significant concern:

Structural Integrity: Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of materials. When metals corrode, they lose their strength and load-bearing capacity, which can lead to failures and collapses in infrastructure, buildings, bridges, pipelines, and other critical structures.

Economic Impact: Corrosion imposes substantial economic costs. The direct expenses associated with corrosion include repairs, replacements, and maintenance of corroded structures and equipment. Additionally, there are indirect costs such as production losses, decreased efficiency, and increased energy consumption due to the effects of corrosion on industrial processes and machinery.

Environmental Consequences: Corrosion can have adverse environmental effects. For example, in the case of pipelines, corrosion can lead to leaks and spills of hazardous substances, causing soil and water pollution and damaging ecosystems.

Health and Safety Risks: Corrosion can create health and safety risks in various ways. For instance, when corrosion affects pipelines or storage tanks carrying toxic substances, it can lead to leaks or releases that endanger the health of workers, communities, and the environment.

Maintenance and Downtime: Corrosion necessitates regular maintenance and inspection programs to detect and mitigate its effects. This requires significant time, effort, and financial resources. Additionally, when corrosion-related issues arise, it often requires shutting down operations, causing downtime and productivity losses.

Given these reasons, it is crucial to understand and address corrosion through preventive measures, protective coatings, corrosion-resistant materials, regular inspections and testing (ASTM B117), and appropriate maintenance practices to mitigate its impact and ensure the longevity and safety of structures and equipment.